Countdown is on to Limerick’s top business event of the year
Limerick Chamber awards set for Friday, November 13
THE COUNTDOWN to the premier event in Limerick’s business calendar is under way.
We may be just into July, and experiencing a heatwave, but preparations are under way for the 2026 Limerick Chamber Regional Business Awards, which have been set for Friday, November 13.
Taking place at Limerick Strand Hotel, the event takes place in partnership with the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and also doubles up as Chamber president Maria Gleeson’s annual dinner.
The largest annual business gathering in the region, it will bring together business leaders and policymakers to celebrate the achievements and ambition of the local community.
Entries are now open across a number of categories, with a shortlist of finalists to be announced in early October.
Limerick Chamber chief executive Donnacha Hurley said: “The awards highlight the businesses that are not just succeeding but actively shaping the region’s future. As the voice of business in the Mid-West, Limerick Chamber is proud to champion the companies driving our region forward.
"From ambitious startups to global exporters, these awards recognise the real engines of growth and innovation. They reflect the strength, diversity, and resilience of our business community. If your business is making an impact, now is the time to step forward and be recognised. I strongly encourage you to enter.”
Open to all businesses across the region, membership of Limerick Chamber is not required to apply, with the judging process independently assessed.
Ten awards will be given out this year – for the best emerging business, best small to medium sized enterprise, best employer and best community impact award.
There are also prizes for sustainability and environmental leadership, customer experience excellence, plus innovation and digital transformation.
A not-for-profit company or charity will also be honoured for their impact.
Of all of these, one will become the overall business of the year.
As well as this, Chamber president Ms Gleeson will award a special award picked by herself - to honour someone who has given dedicated service to the region.
Last year’s overall winner was Castletroy-based firm BD.
Its site lead Owen O’Neill described landing the title as a “milestone moment” for his team.
"It gave us meaningful recognition and opened new conversations with partners, customers, and talent. The exposure raised our profile locally and nationally. This acknowledgment was more than an honour; it was a catalyst,” he said.
Ms Gleeson said: The awards embody the spirit of the Limerick Chamber community, a community that is diverse, driven, and deeply collaborative. We celebrate the companies that are not only growing but also giving back, innovating, and shaping the region’s future. The president’s dinner provides a unique moment to reflect on progress and unite the voices that advocate for investment, talent, and policy focus for the Mid-West.”
AIB sponsor the president’s dinner element of the evening.
Glenn Graham, business banking at AIB in Limerick said: “Our partnership with Limerick Chamber reflects a shared commitment to the success of Irish business. From emerging enterprises to long-established small-to-medium sized enterprises, we are proud to support and spotlight those driving employment, innovation, and opportunity across the Mid-West.”
TUS is title sponsor of the regional business awards and sponsor of the best overall business of the year category.
For more information and details on how to enter the awards, telephone 061-415180, or alternatively, visit www.limerickchamber.ie